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  • 8

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    This was a great holiday it was the first time I had gone on a guided walking holiday and my reservations about walking with people I didn't know and that they may walk a lot faster or slower soon disappeared as we were split up into two groups and the guides knowledge of the trip was very good

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    The stunning scenery did it for me every day. The hotel food was great the staff at the hotel were very good the spa facilities were amazing!

    What did you think of your group leader?

    The group leader was fine very knowledgable polite listened when appropriate

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    The flight times from Gatwivk to Venice were tenable to say the least it made for a poor end to an otherwise perfect holiday

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    I'll certainly be choosing exuadus again

  • 8

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    Walking varied and excellent. Good use of cable cars and lifts (thank goodness!).Hotel excellent, food wonderful and spa great.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    Walking along the scary ridge (cannot remember its name, but we had walked up from Alba that day) Meadow flowers in abundance. Sharing lunch with choughs.

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Albert was superb. Encouraging without being condescending (I wish my legs were as long as his...) Knowledgable without being an anorak. A leader with a light touch (he allowed me to skip the rests and move ahead at my - very slow -  pace until the group caught up with me). Nothing but praise.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    If the flight times are the same next year (and I hope they are not, see below) use the last day to go to Bolzano instead of Venice. You can 'do' most of Bolzano easily in a day, and the museum for Otzi, the Ice Man, is worth seeing.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    As mentioned; the very late return to Gatwick added the expense of a hotel to the trip. It's no so bad going out late, but the late return with a long onward journey home was far from ideal.

  • 10

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    A truely awesome holiday that provided plenty of walking variety, great food and company and is based in a really friendly and comfortable hotel with a suprisingly good wellness facility.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    All the walks had moments that were inspirational, especially the constantly unfolding and paroramic views. Reaching the top of a long & steep climb that Eric had described as a 'short scramble'! Finding that the whole group gelled and that we were all very happy to spend virtually the whole of each day together!

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Eric led Group B and his familularity with the area, his preparation and willingness to adjust routings to suit the conditions and our pace were all first class. He kept us all in good humour without being 'in your face' at all. He clearly had the measure of us all and gradually increased the walking challenge each day as our pace and condition improved. Albert, who led Group C, was equally able & great fun. They made a good team.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    We walked with in Group B most days as, despite being fairly fit, we found the Group C just a little too strenuous to start with (is was a holiday after all!). Don't think that Group B is for softies - these walks are still demanding, just not as much as Group C! Bring your swimming things - the wellness is a wonderful way to unwind after a long walk. Don't expect to loose any weight - the food is just too good. Add a day or two in Venice at the start or end of your holiday.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    As someone else has remarked, the title of this holiday is a little too modest when compared to the 'Classic Dolomites'. Don't be put off - it is utterly spectacular. You will not be disappointed. The timing of the outward flight/transfer was not great - we arrived at the hotel at 3am (and left for our first walk at 8:30am). This was our first Exodus - it will not be our last.

  • 8

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    Rewarding trekking through spectacular scenery

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    On the last day climbing up the metal ropes from the morning break

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Albert was inspirational & made you truly believe everything is possible, just take your time. Eric was like his partner & equally as helpful

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    A reasonable level of fitness is required for this trip but is rewarded many times over

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    Though this trip is called the western Dolomites, you could call it the ultimate Dolomites as Marmolada is never far from view. Even on on our day off some went to Sass Pordoi by cable car which simply has to be experienced.

  • 8

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    Breathtaking scenery, two excellent leaders, delicious food - what more can you want? Except maybe not getting deep snow in September!

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    Coming up to a pass after an exhausting steep climb and seeing the most stupendous array of mountains all around (this actually happened more than once!)

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Both B and C group leaders (Jem and Albert) were magnificent. They had to cope with lots of unexpected problems - standing in at short notice for Eric who was injured, devising new walks that could be done safely after the heavy snowfall, coping with early closure of cable cars. They not only gave us a wonderful selection of walks despite everything, they both gave up their free day to take us out once the snow stopped. What can you say?

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    Be aware the weather can be changeable - make sure you have good waterproofs and adequate warm clothing (but shorts and t-shirts as well). Also, if you do the C grade, be prepared for some scrambling and some narrow ridges.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    If you haven't been to the Dolomites yet, you must go, they are wonderful mountains. And the food at Hotel Arnica is worth going for by itself!

  • 8

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    Walking, accommodation (especially the food) and leaders all excellent - BUT Exodus really shouldn't run the trip as late as mid-September - the winter timetable had started a week earlier so some cable cars weren't running, and unexpected heavy snow led to others being shut down - because of this the leaders had to work very hard to find alternative walks and it is to their great credit that they managed to do so.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    Walking in deep snow in September....!  The views (once it stopped raining and snowing) were amazing! 

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Both were excellent - and they both willingly gave up their free day to take us on walks

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    Great trip but don't go later than the first week in September as both cable cars and huts are shutting down - and I don't think it's fair of Exodus to run the trip then and put extra pressure on leaders

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    The food in Arnica is fantastic!

  • 10

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    A fantastic area, the scenery was breathtaking and the hotel was excellent.  Using cable cars and gondolas to gain height means that most of the walking has tremendous views.  Underfoot the wildflowers are beautiful and there are marmots and chamois to see.  At the end of the day the spa area of the hotel was well used.  Hotel food was excellent with several unusual dishes and a scrumptious gala evening which was a real treat

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    1 Seeing a chamois crossing the path not 20 ft away 2 Getting to the top of one of the highest peaks at almost 10000 ft on the free day (mainly by amazing cable car) 3 Managing to complete a section to the time specified on the signpost 4 As ever on an Exodus tripp meeting like minded people and having a great time getting to know them

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Eric was a very good leader - lots of knowledge about the area including the rocks, flowers etc.  The routes were chosen to make the most of poor weather forecasts although it turned out the forecasts were unduly pessimistic. He has a good sense of humour and the knack of creating a happy atmosphere in the group

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    Make sure to take a swimsuit to take advantage of the hotel spa area.  On the free day a good choice is to take the cable cars to the top of Sass Podoi from where the view is incredible and the mountain hut does the usual excellent lunch.  I did find the altitude affected me, I had not been this high before and the walking made me more breathless than normal.  People more accustomed to heights did not experience this.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    I like the holidays with two grades of walk, I think this is especially good for couples where one is stronger than the other and also it enables you to book with confidence that the correct grade can be chosen in the resort.  I had previously done a C walk on a different holiday, on this trip I was only able to manage the B grade, I think this was mainly due to the altitude which did affect me.  Do not be put off however, this is a fantastic trip to an amazing place.

  • 8

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    A fab trip - amazing scenery, great company, lovely food, hotel and spa and a very enthusiastic and capable guide (Eric)

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    It felt good to get to 'the top' on the days when we had steady climbing and was lovely to see people quietly looking out for each other especially on the steep 'marble roads' where loose stones meant a few of us slipped (elegantly)!

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Eric was very keen and organised and a lovely bloke. He offered options for those wanting half days or needing to avoid the steeper climbs and even organised a quiz in the bar. He was keeping an eye on all of us without it being obvious and gently played down how much more climbing there might be - the term 'relatively flat' wil never mean the same again!

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    Take 2 walking poles - I found them really helpful on steep ascents and descents and they stopped me slipping over a few times (although some people didn't use them at all) You may need more cash than suggested - we ate in restaurants which was better than picnics as we often needed a big bowl of pasta etc If you want to be as fit as possible then do some steep ascents and descents pre trip! Don't forget your blister plasters!

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    Ode To Eric There once was a man with the knack Of guiding from the front (or the back) He shouted as he strode 'Only one more marble road And after that it's relatively flat'!

  • 10

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    This trip was the perfect combination for me - great scenery, varied walks, excellent hotel, amazing food and a great group of people. Eric led the group B walks and he was the perfect leader.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    Drawing the curtains back on the first morning, having arrived in rain and darkness the night before, and seeing the beautiful mountains! Seeing the incredible views after a slog up a steep slope! The wild flowers. They were so abundant and beautiful. Swimming and relaxing in the steam room before dinner - what luxury!

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Eric was relaxed but in control, which is no mean feat when you have a group of 17 or so. He briefed us about the next day's walk every evening. He had alternatives in case of bad weather. We had a storm after lunch one day and Eric changed the route so that we got down as fast as possible. Then the bus didn't arrive so he arranged a taxi for us all while we waited in a cafe. He was a great group leader and I'm sure he could handle anything. He knew lots about the area, plants, etc too. He was a lovely, knowledgable, good humoured guide.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    Believe the trip notes when it says take a warm hat and gloves. It was late June and the weather on the last few days was variable. We got caught in a storm and it hailed. I was very glad of my hat, gloves and waterproof trousers! I had a hydration system and everyone envied it. Take a walking pole (or two). I'd never used one before and I was glad of it on the gravelly slopes, some of which are quite steep.  

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    An amazing trip! Fields full of flowers, beautiful mountains, glacial rivers, amazing views, friendly hotel staff who remembered my name after I told them once, delicious 5 course dinners, croissant-eating donkeys, lots of banter, the wonderful spa... I'd have stayed forever!   Soraga is quite small and relatively untouristy compared to other towns we saw. The hotel is away from the main road and I liked the location, next to a small church and older buildings. I found it interesting that the architecture is very Austrian/German and these influences were also reflected in the food. Pasta, knodel, goulash and plenty of ice cream! We used the bus and ski lifts every day except the first. It was great to be up in the mountains already and then walk even higher up.

  • 10

    WALKING IN THE WESTERN DOLOMITES

    A really great holiday with varied scenary which was fantastic.  A great area for walking.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    The fantastic views from the summits and passes in the mountains.

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Albert was a fantastic group c leader.  He took account of weather conditions to plan the best walk for each day with alternatives if weather conditions dictated.  Every day was a great walk with different scenary and fantastic wild flowers and several marmot sitings.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    We really enjoyed the walking in this area and the hotel was great.  We really enjoyed the food and used the pool and leisure facilities each evening which were great after a hard days walking

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    We had a really great weeks walking.

  • 10

    Highlights of the Dolomites

    a superb walking area (exceeded my expectations) Good value for money with the standard of the hotel. The trip was well organised with top quality guides

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    the walk on the final day which had a variety of different terrains to negotiate

    What did you think of your group leader?

    excellent guide, friendly, sociable with a strong knowledge of the area

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    Just to make sure you bring enough clothes to allow for a range of weathers

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

  • 8

    Highlights of Dolomites

    I was worried about sharing a room with a stranger but am so glad I did. The company of 17 like minded people from all walks of life was remarkably good. I would like to go back to the Dolomites earlier in the summer when these stunning mountains could be seen in sunshine. The hotel room was comfortable and the food was excellent. I liked being able to choose between the 2 levels of walks and appreciated the care from the 2 excellent leaders.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    The last day when I joined the more advanced group and saw the amazing views as I made it across ridge.

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Both Eric and Emily went out of their way to make the holiday as good as it could be. We had a bad start with the delayed flight then the accident when one of the group slipped and broke his leg. On top of these events, the weather was disappointing. Thanks to their care and attention the group overcame these difficulties and managed to have a really great holiday.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    It can be cold on the high mountains so bring a warm hat, ski type gloves and clothes to layer up as required.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    I look forward to my next Exodus Holiday

  • 10

    Highlights of the Dolomites

    We have been on several Exodus trips and always choose the challenging grade but sometimes we have been disappointed, as the walks have not been as demanding as we thought they might be. However, this was not the case on this trip - the level 5 walks were very challenging. This is the first multi-level trip we have been on and it worked well. We had an informative briefing from both leaders in the evening and people could decide which walk they wanted to do the next day - this was very helpful.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    The scenery on all the walks was stunning. The village of Moena was very Alpine in style and lovely.

    What did you think of your group leader?

    We did the level 5 walks all week with Albert. He was very knowledgeable and knew the area very well. We had to change routes several times due to weather conditions but he still provided great walks. Eric led the level 3 walks and was also very knowledgeable and helpful.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    This is a great trip if you are unsure of your ability as you can choose level 3 or level 5 each day. Level 5 walks were mainly 16 - 20 km long and 800 - 1000 metres ascent. Lunches are normally bought and eaten in the Rifugios. One day we took our own lunch (bought from local bakery) and ate outside to sit and admire the scenery and this was a not a problem.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    This is a superb holiday in a beautiful area and we would highly recommend it.

  • 8

    Amazing Dolomite Trekking

    Great week of level 5 trekking with amazing views. The option of swapping to level 3 if desired was available to us at each evening's debrief which was perfect. Each trek available each day was described and we could chose each evening which group we went out with. Hotel and food was simply wonderful, fabulous hosts! Would go back again in a heartbeat.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    All of it, the views, the walking and the Refugio's we stopped at for lunches made for a perfect walking holiday.

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Both Eric and Albert were great. Both friendly and helpful.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    Be prepared for hard (but very rewarding) walking at level 5 with simply amazing scenery. I did the last day at level 3 which was very easy and i'm very glad I had stuck with the level 5 walks all week. The hotel has a sauna to relieve any aches - do make use of it - and after a good nights sleep you were ready for another good days walking. Do take rain coats just in case - weather as in all mountains can be unpredictable.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    Eric organised an evening of local cheese and wine tasting which was informative, tasty and fun. The whole group (even cheese haters) went along and we all had a great time. The hotel was lovely, the owners very welcoming. The food was fabulous and plentiful. Travelling by local bus was a great and green way to see more of the dolomites too.

  • 10

    Highlights of the Dolomites

    A great week of walking in the Dolomites. This is a place of stunning jagged mountain peaks and beautiful villages below.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    Stopping at some of the highest points on our walks and taking in the scenery.

    What did you think of your group leader?

    We had two leaders, Albert Callewaert and Eric Woolley. Both were highly competent leaders. They worked well together and organised some great walks for us. Due to inclement weather conditions during our week (19th Sept), several times they had to change planned parts of walks due to rain causing landslides or high winds. This was not a problem and good, safe walks were enjoyed. They were very helpful in making suggestions and giving information for activities on our free day and also organised a local wine and cheese tasting for the evening and a meal in a local restaurant.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    We stopped for coffee and lunch at mountain rifugios on most days, so there was no need for the larger of the two water containers I had taken. It was also good to use the facilities. Tap water in Italy is good, which saved money (I find the tap water in England does not taste good). The hotel was well equipped, so I did not need to use the hair dryer I had taken (double room).

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    You really do need to be prepared for any sort of weather, if going in September. We had sun, rain and high winds. And you do need to take sunglasses, not just for the sun, but also for the reflection of the sun on the white limestone.

  • 10

    Highlights of the Dolomites

    Everyone has their own way of relaxing on holiday. Mine is a physical challenge and the hikes in the Dolomites fulfilled that purpose. The choice of levels were ideal so you could switch between them depending on your energy levels. The group dynamics always seem to work well on these hiking holidays as walkers and nature lovers are great people to be with. Our base in Moena was charming. Be prepared for mountain food which is heavy on the carbs, MEAT &amp; cheese. The refugios in the mountains for lunch stops are brilliant. The best pizza and hot chocolates! Expect every type of weather...it's the mountains after all. Every adventure starts with a tentative first step into the unknown, take yours into the stunning scenery of the Dolomites.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    The day the chair lift and cable car were not running on our descent on a challenging walk which meant another hour or so on a tough day. No one complained. We all saw the positive side Of walking through the trees, and our leader getting to walk a new walk for a change!

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Albert Callewaert &amp; Eric Wooley were brilliant. They each had their own skills...Eric was the natural orator as Albert said and Alberts ability to encourage all of us to keep up with him on the tough walks without words, just through example and giant size steps making us run a little at times!

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    If you're afraid of heights, but want to conquer your fear do as a member in our group did and join the level 3 walks. It is confidence boosting. Bring poles as they help with the ascents and descents.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    Nope

  • 10

    Highlights of the Dolomites

    My last visit to the Dolomites was many years ago and I had forgotten how spectacular they are especially when viewed from the high level hikes. It was a fabulous week and this is best confirmed that the day after my return I was already planning a similar trip for the next year!

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    It is difficult to say what was the best part - possibly the ascent of the Piz Boe peak (3152m) with the most fantastic panorama!

    What did you think of your group leader?

    There were two group leaders for this trip because there was a choice every day of doing a level three walk or a harder level five. I did some of both levels and therefore got to see both of our leaders in action and I have to say that both Eric and Albert were first class. The daily walks were fully explained in advance and led with absolute competence which included the occasional diversion from the original plan in order to accommodate changes in weather conditions.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    If you fancy a change mid-week it is well worth the bus trip to Bolzano which is a lovely city with pedestrianised, cobbled streets. The Ice Man museum is fascinating too. Allow at least one and a half hours here.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

  • 10

    Rugged mountain scenery at its best

    Great trekking trip, with different difficult walks available on each day, all with the stunning backdrop of the Dolomites towering above picture postcard villages in the valley below.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    Reaching the highest point on the trip (Piz Boe, 3150m) after a fun scramble; Sense of achievement from finishing the first Grade 5 walk of the week, which included a couple of steep ascents &amp; descents, and then the celebratory beer afterwards at a mountain Rifugio.

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Our group leaders, Albert &amp; Eric, were friendly, helpful, &amp; always enthusiastic.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    Get it booked.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

  • 8

    Highlights of the Dolomites

    Excellent walking experience - choice of hotel disappointing.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    The first beer after each walk! The Dolomites provides the opportunity to walk all day &amp; look back at what you have achieved. tremendous.

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Albert was excellent at setting expectations of the route ahead &amp; controlling a steady pace. clearly very experienced.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    Budget more for lunches at refuges, travel locally &amp; evenings.

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    I was fine having booked a budget hotel. Having no transport &amp; having to catch 8am local buses to beat the rush was annoying being on holiday. I would have preferred to pay more for a hotel nearer the walks starting point. The proprietor is a rather eccentric individual &amp; put on the odd performance at evening meals - didn't exactly make anyone feel comfortable at other times. its such a good trip otherwise &amp; could be easily rectified.

  • 10

    Highlights of the Dolomites

    The walking was varied and challenging enough ( Grade 5), our group was a good mix which seemed to click straight away and we were blessed with perfect weather the whole week. The views were magnificent and the walks well planned. It was good to use the available ski lifts to save slogging up the lower slopes, so that we could start higher and go further.

    What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

    Climbing up a steep slope to the Vaiolon pass, involving a fixed ladder on Day 2 Coming down a long and steep descent through meadows and forest on Day 4, after a stimulating walk over a couple of passes.

    What did you think of your group leader?

    Albert was excellent. Sometimes a man of few words, he was always aware of where everyone was and how they were doing. I always felt comfortable in his group.

    Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

    This was a more expensive holiday than I had expected. last year ( in Tuscany) the daily travel to start the walks and the wine with the meal was included. Here, everything was extra and we used both bus and ski lifts in abundance because we were staying a long way down the valley from many of the walks. People should be warned about this

    Is there anything else you would like to add?

    The hotel was only adequate. The rooms were small, the beds narrow and uncomfortable and the food at dinner was poor. The saving grace was the salad bar, where we could supplement the other shortcomings.

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